In this episode of The Breakfast Leadership Show, we explore how California continues to lead the nation in wage growth and what that means for both employers and employees navigating a rapidly changing economy.

Recent analysis from Keller Executive Search, using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, reveals that California saw a 6.55% increase in average weekly wages between 2023 and 2024, ranking fifth in the nation. The state’s average weekly pay rose from $1,757 to $1,872, a gain that not only outpaced the national average of 4.88% but also exceeded inflation.

We unpack the driving forces behind this growth, including the strength of California’s technology, entertainment, and professional services sectors, and what this says about the broader labor market. While these gains signal that many workers are seeing real increases in purchasing power, California’s high cost of living continues to offset some of that progress, making long-term affordability and retention key issues.

The discussion also dives into how leaders can respond strategically:

• Investing in continuous skill development to keep pace with evolving demands.

• Creating adaptable workforce plans that align with economic cycles.

• Balancing compensation growth with organizational sustainability.

Ultimately, this episode challenges both employers and employees to view wage growth as more than a paycheck shift. It is a signal of transformation in how we work, hire, and lead in an economy defined by rapid innovation and constant reinvention.

Struggling with costs in your healthcare organization? Reach out to Michael. Click Here for more info

In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, Michael speaks with Michi McClure, Founder of Consivian, about her transformation from an “accidental leader” to a conscious architect of human and organizational growth. Michi shares how her firm evolved from its compliance origins into a full-spectrum business consultancy helping leaders and teams grow through authenticity, systems thinking, and self-awareness.

Together, they explore what it means to build organizations that are not just compliant — but truly connected, conscious, and continually learning.

Michael and Michi unpack how organizational health begins with authentic human connection. They discuss how leaders can create environments where people feel safe to speak openly, challenge ideas, and contribute meaningfully. Drawing inspiration from 3M’s innovation culture and Amy Edmondson’s research on psychological safety, the conversation highlights the power of balancing data-driven insight with genuine human empathy.

Michael shares a story about a healthcare redesign initiative that excluded doctors from the planning process — a costly mistake that became a case study in why leaders must include all stakeholders. The story becomes a powerful metaphor for leadership humility, reminding us that sustainable change only happens when everyone’s voice is invited to the table.

Michi and Michael discuss how leaders can move beyond rigid structures and instead create flexible meeting formats, adaptive communication rhythms, and spaces for real-time problem-solving. They emphasize that leadership today isn’t about following old rules — it’s about being present, reflective, and responsive to what teams actually need.

Michi shares her creative experiment with a “visual thermometer” on her office door, where her team could anonymously reflect how they perceived her leadership presence each day. This tool became a catalyst for self-awareness and emotional intelligence — qualities she believes are essential to modern leadership. Michael expands on the idea, encouraging leaders to “take their own pulse” after key interactions to assess connection and tone.

Both Michi and Michael underscore the importance of reflective learning — recognizing blind spots, seeking feedback, and embracing discomfort as a teacher. Michi connects this process to burnout prevention, explaining how reflection and feedback re-energize leaders by aligning them more deeply with purpose.

In a discussion that blends philosophy and practicality, Michi advocates for leaders to give themselves “space and grace” to recharge creatively. Michael introduces the timeless “sharpen the saw” parable, illustrating how sustainable productivity requires rest, reflection, and recalibration. Together, they explore how Consivian helps leaders move from burnout to balanced, consistent performance — like the steady pace of a tortoise rather than the burnout-driven sprint of a hare.

Michi dives into the challenges of change management, noting that many leaders attempt to “fix” others before examining their own systems. She encourages a shift toward self-inquiry, using feedback loops and system mapping to uncover invisible barriers that hinder transformation.

To close, Michi shares how continuous learning shapes the culture at Consivian — each client engagement becomes a new opportunity for insight, innovation, and growth. She invites listeners to explore more about her work and resources at consivian.com.

🔗 Website: consivian.com 💡 LinkedIn: Michi McClure 📚 Blog & Coaching Resources: Consivian Leadership Insights

Michael and Rebecca explored the role of imagination in organizational development, focusing on how it can help teams break free from routine and avoid burnout. Rebecca emphasized the value of developing strategy collaboratively and embedding it into systems so it becomes actionable. Michael shared a personal story about a team exercise that strengthened his relationship with his CEO, showing how facilitation can break down silos and build vulnerability within teams.

Rebecca highlighted the importance of facilitated conversations to create shared language and vivid pictures of possible futures. She stressed that leaders must take agency in shaping the future during times of uncertainty. Michael reflected on his leadership experience during the Great Recession, noting how proactive strategies and market exploration were essential. Both agreed that preparation and action are far better than waiting passively for challenges to unfold.

Rebecca explained how constraints can ignite creativity, comparing children who produce better art with limited supplies to organizations that innovate within boundaries. She pointed out that major failures like the 2008 financial crisis and the 9/11 attacks were tied to a lack of imagination and unpreparedness for unexpected events.

Michael and Rebecca discussed how imagination can help leaders plan for multiple scenarios, both positive and negative. They emphasized that envisioning different futures calms the nervous system and prepares people for surprises. Michael encouraged leaders to think beyond worst-case scenarios, exploring opportunities for growth and using positive goal-setting to shape desired outcomes.

Rebecca emphasized the need to align emotions with rational decision-making and create compelling shared visions that motivate people. She argued that imagination should be treated as a serious, forward-looking tool rather than relying only on traditional approaches that analyze past performance. Imagination not only makes strategy development more effective but also more engaging and enjoyable.

Rebecca shared details about her work and invited listeners to visit RebeccaSoutherns.com, where they can explore free resources and her "Possibility Packs," merchandise designed to spark imagination.

Dr. Rebecca Sutherns – Imagination Strategist for Purpose-Driven Leaders

Rebecca Sutherns, Ph.D., is the CEO and Founder of Sage Solutions, where she helps purpose-driven leaders close the gap between what matters most to them and what they actually do. With more than 27 years of global experience as a bestselling author, master facilitator, and coach, Rebecca is known for turning imagination into a strategic advantage. She brings analytical rigor, warm energy, and adaptability to strategy, governance, and decision-making.

Her work began with a simple but powerful observation: many leaders stay stuck in past patterns, overlooking new possibilities. She discovered that a “failure of imagination” is often the hidden reason behind team misalignment and even global challenges. Today, she equips Boards and executives to distinguish what is fixed from what is flexible as they shape the future in times of rapid change.

Through her ELASTIC framework, Rebecca helps non-profit leaders reimagine their next chapter with creativity and clarity. Whether through strategic planning facilitation or her innovative Possibility Packs, she champions imagination as a learnable skill and a collective practice—helping leaders co-create vivid mental pictures of what’s possible and proactively "dent the world."

🔗 Connect with Rebecca Website: rebeccasutherns.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccasutherns Email: rebecca@rebeccasutherns.com

Dr. Nick opens up about his family’s financial struggles after his parents’ divorce, and how those early hardships shaped his mission to become a financial planner. Watching his mother juggle multiple jobs gave him the drive to help others avoid similar pain. Having walked through divorce myself, I connected deeply with his story and the importance of financial clarity during life’s toughest moments.

We also talk about redefining financial priorities and how even small, consistent steps add up through the magic of compound interest. Dr. Nick recalls being introduced to the concept at 16 by a golf course owner named Rex—an experience that ultimately launched his career in finance.

Our conversation turned to the lessons you can pick up from unexpected places—like working at a golf course. For me, it was a front-row seat to observe how wealthier individuals handled themselves, and a reminder that humility in tasks like picking up garbage can lead to life-changing opportunities.

Mindset is everything. Dr. Nick and I discussed how money matters, but intentional living and meaningful relationships are what create lasting fulfillment. We explored the balance between career satisfaction, financial stability, and well-being—emphasizing that true success isn’t measured solely in dollars.

One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation is that happiness looks different for everyone. Aligning your financial plan with your unique values and goals is essential. Dr. Nick warned about the trap of social media comparisons, reminding us that joy doesn’t come from external approval but from understanding what really matters to you.

We also unpacked modern retirement. It’s no longer about quitting work altogether—it’s about creating space for consulting, passion projects, or part-time work. Both Dr. Nick and I agree that knowing yourself and planning ahead can help avoid impulsive decisions and ensure a fulfilling later chapter in life.

Dr. Nick’s book is designed to help readers identify their strengths, weaknesses, and money stressors through reflection. By connecting financial strategies to core values, readers can create a more intentional and fulfilling financial plan. He even offers a free downloadable chapter on compounding at richbychoicebook.com. I strongly encourage you to grab it, dive into the exercises, and start clarifying your own path to financial freedom.

Dr. Nicholas Michels knows what it’s like to start with nothing. Growing up in a trailer park, he charted an extraordinary journey — becoming a professional athlete, bestselling author, and one of the most trusted voices in wealth and life planning.

As Founder of Michels Family Financial and creator of the Rich by Choice movement, Nicholas has spent more than 20 years guiding thousands toward lasting stability, confidence, and peace of mind. His approach goes far beyond spreadsheets — blending behavioral psychology, faith-based principles, and practical financial strategies to help families design lives rooted in purpose and values.

Before launching his firm, Nicholas played professional basketball overseas and earned elite credentials including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CERTIFIED PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISOR®. Today, his Amazon bestselling book Rich by Choice has inspired readers worldwide, and his voice has been featured in major media as a passionate advocate for financial literacy, mindset growth, and values-driven success.

Signature Speaking Topics:

• Financial Happiness: Why peace matters more than portfolio size

• The $8 Million Lesson: Walking away from the deal that didn’t align with the mission

• Marriage & Money: Turning conflict into deeper connection

If you’re looking for a conversation that inspires action, challenges old money stories, and leaves people empowered to build wealth and a meaningful life — Nicholas delivers every time.

Free Resource: https://RichByChoiceBook.com

Book: Rich By Choice

Website: https://michelsfamilyfinancial.com

🎙 The Truth About Equity: A Conversation with Celeste Warren Guest: Celeste R. Warren — DEI Consultant, Global HR Leader, Speaker, Author

Today on the Breakfast Leadership Show, I sit down with the incredible Celeste R. Warren, a trailblazing voice in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space. With nearly four decades of global HR and DEI leadership under her belt, Celeste brings the kind of insight that moves conversations from theory to transformation.

She’s the author of The Truth About Equity: What It Really Is, What It Isn’t, And Why Everyone Wins When We Get It Right — a powerful guide that unpacks equity with clarity, compassion, and practical action.

In this episode, we explore: ✅ Why equity is misunderstood — and how we can reframe it as a win for all ✅ The “Rocks and Fence” analogy that shifts perspectives in minutes ✅ The real difference between equality and equity — and how fairness bridges the two ✅ Why “meritocracy” doesn’t work unless equity comes first ✅ How Celeste’s bold leadership reshaped Merck’s culture — and inspired global change ✅ Actionable ways leaders and teams can overcome the equity disconnect

We also dive into Celeste’s personal journey — from fighting for equal pay as a young reporter to becoming a respected thought leader in the corporate DEI world.

🎧 Interview Highlights:

• How did Celeste go from navigating pay gaps to leading DEI globally?

• What keeps people resistant to the idea of equity, and how do we change that?

• Why equity isn’t preferential treatment — and how to explain it clearly

• What’s one quick, meaningful step any leader can take to bridge the gap?

🔗 Connect with Celeste Warren 🌐 Website: crwdiversity.com 💼 LinkedIn: Celeste Warren 📧 Email: celeste@celestewarrenconsulting.com

📘 Grab her book: The Truth About Equity – available wherever books are sold.

Don't miss this conversation if you're serious about building a workplace where everyone can thrive. Celeste’s practical wisdom will challenge you, inspire you, and equip you to lead better.

🎙 Subscribe to the Breakfast Leadership Show for more interviews with today’s top thought leaders in workplace culture, leadership, and purpose-driven performance.

In this episode, I sit down with Julius, a leadership coach who knows firsthand what burnout feels like from his years in management consultancy. Julius shares how embodiment practices and organizational behavior can bridge the gap between what we know about burnout and what we actually do to prevent it. By tuning into body awareness and reconnecting with our physical vitality, leaders can develop practical ways to manage stress and protect their energy.

Julius and I opened up about our personal experiences with burnout, from sleepless nights and rising anxiety to withdrawing from activities that once brought joy. I emphasized the importance of digging into the deeper motivations that fuel burnout, while Julius outlined his approach using gestalt therapy and embodiment practices to restore balance and resilience in leaders.

Julius shared a story about coaching a leader to find the right balance between professional composure and authentic emotional expression. Rather than shutting down emotions, he helps leaders integrate them into healthier ways of working. I reflected on the historical challenges female leaders have faced and highlighted the urgent need for better leadership training that supports both emotional skills and professional growth.

We both agreed that leadership demands more than theory. Universities often miss the mark by not equipping students with the life skills they will actually need in the workplace such as emotional regulation, communication, and professional behavior. Together, Julius and I explored how these skills could reshape both education and organizational success.

A key theme in our conversation was self-awareness. Julius and I discussed how clarity on personal values, needs, and goals drives more meaningful action and prevents burnout. I shared my own journey of recovery, where asking “why does this matter to me?” shifted everything. Julius emphasized that while organizations may fear the vulnerability that comes with self-exploration, the real risk lies in avoiding it altogether.

Julius introduced his 4A model which stands for awareness, attraction, action, and alignment. This practical framework supports self-regulation and leadership growth. I recalled my time at Daimler-Benz, where inviting outside perspectives into project debriefs expanded capacity and improved results without additional hiring. Both of us stressed that feedback and reflection are non-negotiable for personal and organizational growth.

Julius highlighted dialogue as a cornerstone of healthy organizations, helping leaders and teams release pressure and broaden perspective. I agreed, noting that genuine communication tears down silos and prevents misunderstandings before they grow into bigger issues.

To close, we explored Julius’s work on embodied leadership and how listeners can learn more. If you want to deepen your leadership through embodiment, you can connect with Julius through his website or LinkedIn.

Julius went from executive burnout in high-pressure tech environments to pioneering Embodied Leadership, a method that blends psychology, neuroscience, and somatic practices. As founder of the Alive School of Embodied Leadership & Transformation in Berlin, he helps leaders from startups to global enterprises sustain performance without burning out. A published author and Harvard Business Manager contributor, Julius shares practical “bodyhacks” and strategies to move from leadership frustration (Führungsfrust) to leadership joy (Führungslust). His approach offers listeners actionable tools to prevent burnout and thrive.

In this inspiring episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, host Michael D. Levitt sits down with Daniel McDavid, founder of Move Mountains Credit Repair, to discuss how faith, financial resilience, and ethical leadership can help people overcome credit challenges and step confidently into entrepreneurship.

Founded in 2024 in Southern California, Move Mountains Credit Repair was built on one clear mission — to empower Christian W2 workers and aspiring entrepreneurs to rebuild their credit, access funding, and form the financial foundation they need to achieve their dreams.

Daniel shares the story behind his company’s founding, the why that drives their mission, and how his team combines professional credit repair, LLC formation, and business funding readiness to help clients rise above past setbacks.

This conversation dives deep into how purpose-driven leadership transforms industries that often lack integrity — and how ethical credit restoration can become a vehicle for both personal and spiritual renewal.

• Why financial redemption starts with trust and transparency

• How Move Mountains helps clients prepare for $50K+ in business funding

• The importance of care, community, and professionalism in financial services

• Common misconceptions about credit repair — and what ethical firms actually do

• How faith and integrity shape the company’s approach to every client interaction

Founded by Daniel McDavid in 2024, Move Mountains Credit Repair helps Christian professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs break free from credit struggles and build lasting financial confidence. Their services include:

• Legal removal of negative credit items

• Personalized coaching for better credit habits

• LLC formation support for business setup

• Credit monitoring and transparent updates

• Preparation for funding opportunities of $50K+

With a focus on care, trust, and integrity, Move Mountains has become a trusted name for those seeking honest guidance and real results.

Too many people feel trapped by their financial past — but this episode proves it’s never too late to turn things around. If you’ve ever felt disqualified from opportunity because of credit challenges, Daniel’s story will remind you that faith, focus, and professional guidance can move mountains.

https://movemountainsfunding.com/strategybreakdown for a no obligation discussion to help you with your credit! Be sure to mention Breakfast Leadership during your call!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielmcdavid1/

🌐 BreakfastLeadership.com 📚 Read Michael’s books: Burnout Proof | Workplace Culture 🎧 Listen to more episodes on the Breakfast Leadership Show

If you’ve been held back by credit challenges, visit Move Mountains Credit Repair today and take the first step toward financial freedom. Be sure to Mention Breakfast Leadership during your call!

Because when faith meets action — you can truly move mountains.